CSI ELDORADO?

BS Brash
It is not often, and I can’t remember the last time, when collector’s are offered a chance to buy a real died-in-the-wool crime scene! But Barrett-Jackson is offering collector’s (collector’s with a lot of money, albeit) this truly unique circumstance to own not only, possibly, the best survivor 59 Caddy Eldorado in the world, but a Bonified Crime Scene too in their Jan/07 sale.
I can just see Emily Procter, the beautiful blond who plays Calleigh Duquesne on CSI Miami, going over this Caddy with a fine toothcomb. Just that alone would give me reason enough to bid the kids college funds on the Caddy even if it weren’t my favorite car of all time! But even without Emily, it is still one of the most unique cars at the B-J in 2007, so keep an eye on it! I am betting on a guy in South Dakota with a Star Car penchant! But whoever gets it will be a winner in more ways than one!!
Whatever the outcome, the B-J 2007 is stacking up to be a record breaker again, and guys, let’s hope they all pay for their purchases this time. (A little insider’s gossip! One and maybe more classic whales walked on high seven figures bid, my guess is that you heard little or nothing about it!)

Here are the Caddy’s details both automotive and gory. Enjoy!

1959 CADILLAC ELDORADO SEVILLE 2 DOOR HARDTOP
Lot Number: 1014Reserve Type: No ReserveOptions:Engine: 390 Transmission Type: AUTOMATICHorsepower: 345Cylinders: V8Exterior Color: WHITEInterior Color: BLUE
Description
390cid/345hp 3-carb V8 with automatic. The Gagnon Murder Car, the lowest mileage 1959 Cadillac known with 2,240 documented miles. Death car of flamboyant costume jewelry entrepreneur, held 15 years as state's evidence while murderers appealed from death row. Fascinating history and movie material crime story. Actual example of the famous urban legend. Original tires and possibly the only car of this era with original battery and exhaust. Finishes were restored where needed to be museum quality. Ultra low mileage 50's Cadillac’s are extremely rare and this car has only changed hands once in the past 49 years. Equipment includes: cruise control, air suspension with lift, power trunk pulldown, power seats, power windows, vents, and antenna, signal seeking radio, auto leveling, fog lights, 4-speed Hydramatic transmission, power steering and brakes. Of the top of the line Eldorados, only 975 Sevilles were produced, making it the rarest of the tall-finned Cadillacs. In the 50's, Eldorados were the muscle cars with 345 HP large multi-carb high-compression V8's and dual exhaust. The exciting styling of the 50's concept cars culminated in the 1959 Cadillac, an automotive icon regarded by many as the most extravagantly styled production car of all times.

BS Brash Copyright 2006

THE WORLD'S LARGEST TOTEM POLE?

By BS Brash

My totem pole is bigger than your totem pole? There is a little known fight going on between some tourist traps trying to position themselves as “The World’s Largest Totem Pole”, however it eventually turns out, one of the high spots on The Mother Road is the “Really” Big Totem Pole at Foyil Oklahoma.

It is one of the attractions of Old Route 66! Ed Galloway's unique park in which he built the world's largest totem pole park, it is completely made from concrete and has been restored by the Rogers County Historical Society, the Kansas Grass Roots Art Association and the Foyil Heritage Association working together. Ed Galloway was also known for his hand carved violins and wood pictures. In his earlier years he taught young people to carve wood. In 1999, the park was added to the National Register of Historic Places.

"All my life, I did the best I knew. I built these things by the side of the road to be a friend to you."
Ed Galloway

The Totem Pole Park is 4 miles east of Foyil Oklahoma and Route 66 on Oklahoma Highway 28A, Northeast of Claremore Oklahoma.

If you are a Route 66 Nut like I am, you must make a quick drive through nearby Foyil Oklahoma! It is reminiscent of the way things used to be on Old Route 66 because Foyil's main street is an actual remnant of the original Route 66. Old Route 66 actually continues on thru town to return to the currant Route 66, I promise you that a drive down it is like a trip back thru time to Old Route 66.

Oklahoma has the largest segment of Old Route 66 of any the eight states it labored across. As a result, Oklahoma has many Route 66 tales to pass along. Some of which I will be talking about in the future.

Until then, remember, Route 66 Forever!

BS Brash Copyright 2006

Big Block Chevy BBQ & Musclecar BBQ Grills

BS Brash

Man, I gotta get me one of these babies! It might help slake my hunger for Musclecars?
Check these out if you are a BBQ nut like I am. This is big enough to invite all of my car buddies over for Saturday nite beer and lie car show.

These are unique, All Steel, Built To Order
These one of a kind grills are powder coated to withstand 900° F with prices starting at $1300.00 Man that look's big enough to BBQ a whole hog on it!

Here are some of their features:
Custom Ladder Bars with Diamond Plate Shelves
Propane Version with Wiseco Piston control knobs.
Remote Control AM/FM/CD Car Stereo with Indoor/Outdoor Speakers and Power Supply.
Nitrous Purge System w/remote control
Idea for a custom accessory? We can build it for you.
Branding Irons and Grill Surfaces
We offer custom made branding irons and stainless steel grill surfaces welded to the surface.

Prices for branding irons and grill surfaces start at $80.00. Call for definite pricing.

3/16" thick water-cut stainless steel
18" stainless steel handle or Hurst shifter
Your signature or company logo

They offer custom built grills and accessories for the lugnut in you.

Say? When you order one of these, tell 'em that your old buddy BS sent ya, maybe they will give me one if enough of you guys will buy one?
Copyrignt 2006

QUALITY CONTROL?

BS Brash
Some time in the 50's, during the time I lived in Kansas City Missouri, I had a neighbor that worked in the GM assembly plant called Leeds, I think. Anyway he was a sociable if not mouthy neighbor and most of the neighbors liked him enough to encourage him in his conversations. This particular time, he was talking about GM Quality Control and the fact that on the previous day he had a 50 something Chevy come thru the line that was 290+ pounds over weight. Who knew that they actually weighed the new cars?
Any way as the story goes, the car a 4 door was also unusual in that the interior ceiling was about 4" lower in the middle than it should be. This led the curious neighbor to remove the interior ceiling, which led to the discovery that the top was in a large part, lead. It seems that the cars roof had been slightly caved in an assembley line accident, during assembly and the car had been pulled off the assembly line and sent to the body shop for the repair of the roof. This is where the problem occurred, in the body shop. Some redneck decided not to change the roof, but to fill the roof dent with lead. Lead was used a lot around that time for body repairs. (It has since been relegated to restoration shops & replaced with body putty) The roof was duly leaded and painted at which time it was sent back to the line for completion of assembly. There must have been a lot of chuckling in the body shop that day! The body shop's little trick was only revealed when my neighbor caught it by accident.
Another story for the books, a friend of mine, a farmer purchased a new 50’s GM Light Dump truck for use on his farm. From the start it didn't run right, it's engine loped and frequently stalled. My friend, being a pretty good mechanic, compliments of a stint in the US Army Motor pool, decided after the dealer finally threw up his hands over it, he would just rebuild the engine himself. Upon tearing down the engine prior to the rebuild, he discovered that all 6 cylinders were different sizes. After a little snooping around, he found that this was not unusual practice for an end of the line, end of the model season vehicle, when the boys in the assembly line ran out of the proper parts, they would tailor make some of the components to fit that last one or two vehicles off the assembly line. My friend got a brand new engine and a big laugh out of the deal.
Now what does all of this mean? To me, it is indicative of the attitude of the American car makers, "git 'er done for the company'. Try that with the new cars and all of their computers? I think not! But even with their quality problems, give me a good old car over a new car any day!

Copyright 2006 BS Brash Contact BS Brash

2007 Ford Geiger Mustang GT 520

Source: ConceptCarz.com

How much excitement and sporty character can the current Ford Mustang really offer? The answer to this question delivers 520 hp / 382.7 kW, reaches a top speed of 287 km/h, and in addition to racing-inspired body styling painted a hot GeigerCars.de orange offers an exclusive interior with 10,000-watt sound system. The show car Mustang GT 520 from GeigerCars.de (Truderinger Str. 265, D-81825 Munich, phone: +49 / (0) 89 / 42 71 64 13, fax: +49 / (0) 89 / 42 71 64 10, e-mail: info@GeigerCars.de, website: www.GeigerCars.de), Europe's leading tuner of American automobiles, demonstrates the true potential of the reborn sports car legend.

More power through more displacement and supercharge the whole thing to boot is the recipe behind GeigerCars.de's performance tuning of the Mustang GT V8 engine. Displacement was increased from 4.6 to 5.2 liters, and the engine was extensively reworked. Precision-machining of both cylinder heads, installing sport camshafts and reinforcing the valvetrain are part of the GeigerCars.de power treatment as is a belt-driven supercharger with generously dimensioned intercooler. A fully stainless-steel high-performance sport exhaust system with high-performance manifold and metal catalysts round out the engine conversion.

In this guise the eight-cylinder engine produces a proud maximum power output of 520 hp / 382.7 kW, up from stock 300 hp / 220 kW. The peak torque of 563 Nm is available at 4,730 rpm. Power is transferred to the rear wheels via a modified six-speed manual gearbox and a sport clutch. The GeigerCars.de Mustang GT 520 delivers exceptional performance: The sprint from 0 - 100 km/h takes just 4.2 seconds; top speed is 287 km/h. For an optimal supply of cooling and intake air the Munich tuner has also developed a special hood with large air dams.

Read more of this article at

Beware the Geely and the Chery!

BS Brash

The Chinese invasion is no news, but what is news, is that China makes cars too! One brand is called the Geely, the other one is called the Chery. (Would you call me a conspiracy nut if I pointed out that not only is Chery is very close to Chevy but it sounds like a Chinese misphonetic pronunciation of Chevy?) They are already signing up dealers in the US and Canada and along with the Japanese and Korean cars already here, it seems inevitable that we will have more imports and fewer American brands to choose from in the future. Oh, China will make some mistakes, but they are notorious for improving their products and they will improve! With Kia now manufacturing in the US and Toyota, Mazda and Mitsobishi and Nissan already a US Presence, can the reintroduction of the Ugo be far behind? The future looks far worse for Detroit than it already is! The future will not be "Buy American", but "Find American!" At least, once all of the American Manufacturers are gone, they won't be able to blame Detroit for poor gas mileage?Copyright 2006 BS Brash Contact BS Brash

SEIZED ASSETS

By BS Brash

An often over-looked (at least by the public) major source of funding for the US Gov, State and Local Law enforcement organizations is the Ricoh Act. The jist of the act is, if you are a criminal and you make money from your criminal endeavors, and the Law catches you doing so, they can take your profits and the proceeds thereof away from you. That includes any cash on hand, bank accounts, real estate, cars, jewelry, planes, etc, etc, etc. Anything that isn’t cash already, the Law then sells at auction, and this is where the links below comes in. An example of these auctions is the auction listed last that has the United State Marshal Service selling several seized assets including a 1995 Ferrari F355 Spider. The reserve is only $25k. You do have to register and pay in advance, but what auction doesn’t require some registration, including Kruse Auctions. So keep an eye out for bargains from these sources;
http://www.bid4assets.com/storefront/index.cfm?fuseaction=USMS&sfid=150, http://www.firstgov.gov/, http://www.ustreas.gov/auctions/, http://www.autoauctions.gsa.gov/, http://gsaauctions.gov/gsaauctions/gsaauctions/, http://www.treas.gov/auctions/irs/,
http://www.treas.gov/auctions/customs/realprop.html, http://www.propertydisposal.gsa.gov/Property/,
http://www.drms.dla.mil/ , http://www.fcc.gov/, http://www.publicdebt.treas.gov/, http://www.publicdebt.treas.gov/of/ofaucrt.htm.

These are a few of the US Gov auctions, they each have regulations and sometimes they are different from one US Gov Div to another.

Just one caution, there are sites that are scam sites, some of them even link all of the above links into their site and charge you for access to them, so be careful where you surf!

BS Brash Copyright 2006

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The Land Speed Record I almost Had?

Or my lost 15 minutes of fame!
BS Brash

Late in 1957 I decided to try out my dad's 1957 DeSoto Adventurer, it was absolutely beautiful! It was Gold and White with white vinyl seats, it had 150 big ones on the Speedometer, this in a day when tires weren't rated for speed and what seat belts there were lay unused on the back seat floor! The dang thing had a 3/4 race cam (the factory said it was full race) and two 4bbls on a hemi engine, it didn't idle, it loped. Two things happened when you floored the gas pedal, the car was so light that it fishtailed and the gas gauge made a quick trip done the dial to empty. Gas was only .25 cents a gallon, but when you got on this thing, the gas mileage dropped to 4 or 5 mpg. That 30-gallon tank just didn't stay full very long at that rate. One good, or bad thing, depending on your view, it attracted so much attention at the gas pumps, that the attendant forgot to collect payment for the gas as often as not. I got propositioned by so many women it was scary, even by some of the moms! I was in hog heaven and the King of KC when I drove it and the envy of all the guys, even the dads! The car was a repo from a local TV personality and my dad sold cars and he had been assigned the Adventurer as a demo car, I lived high for about a month, then dad was assigned an Isetta? Still got me a lot of dates, but not much envy, but that’s another story for another time.

It was a Friday in June of ’58, I had just been graduated from SE High and all was good. I would soon go to work full time and my life would change, but that Friday night after I dropped off my date, I decided to give the Adventurer it test. I drove out 63rd St to the where the 63rd St Drive-in and 50 highway met and then turned left on what was then a fairly lonesome stretch of double lane highway and dropped the hammer on the Hemi. The car fishtailed and then leaped like a gazelle. The speedometer needle sped across the dial till it was buried out of site and still the speed increased. About then I went thru a speed trap and back then, you didn’t run from the cops, especially if your dad was and ex-KC cop! I started slowing down and stopped, about 10 minutes later the cop caught up with me. I got out of the car to face him and as I did I realized that I knew him and he knew me, he had been a partner of my dad back in the day when KC Cops all rode in pairs. His face fell when he recognized me and he wasn’t vary complimentary when he told me that he was going to forget this incident, but if he ever saw me again, even walking down the street, he was going to throw me in jail for sure! I thanked him and as I climbed back in the Adventurer, he said, “Man that is some car!”As I quietly and slowly drove off, I figured that the 142mph that he said I had registered on the then state-of-the-art equipment, two chalk lines and a stop watch, absolutely must have been a record for an KCMO speeder ever caught up to that time. Oh well, the Guinness Book Of Records wasn’t even circulated in the US back then and I was just happy that I didn’t get any jail time. But man oh man, what a rush!!

BS Brash copyright 2006

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A MESS OF MESSERSCHMITTS

By BS Brash

In the early 50's when the VW was just beginning to think of attacking the huge American Auto Market, if Messerschmitt had been given half a chance and a back seat, things might have been different! The Messerschmitt Kabinenroller KR175 was a microauto produced by Messerschmitt (a German aircraft manufacturer which was prohibited from making cars after WWII clear up to the 1950's due to a whim of MacArthur's), beginning in 1953, designed by aircraft engineers and not unlike a airplane cockpit in appearance. It has two wheels in front and one in back, a kick starter and other motor-scooter-like controls (handlebar for steering with twist-grip throttle and clutch lever), a hand-operated windshield wiper, and no reverse gear. The passenger (copilot) seat is behind the driver seat. Weight: 230 Kg. Cost: DM 2100, or about 500 US 1955 dollars. 65,000 were manufactured before production stopped in 1962. Later models had automobile-like controls, a reverse gear, and eventually four wheels.
After the War, only the very rich had full-size autos. Kleinwagen were more affordable and a very common sight, especially the Messerschmitt.
Not many of these made it to the US as the VW steamrolled over any competition on it's way to capture the American heart.

My guess is that this car would have a large acceptance here in the US now that gas is so pricey! It got 50-70 mpg, but dished out a lot of punishment in the quality of ride and comfort!
Copyright 2006 BS Brash

How to pass emission tests with your collector car

By Nick Cash

I have received several calls for collectors whose vehicles didn't pass emission tests even though they were mechanically sound and had tight rings, ect, etc.

There are two or three things that you can do to cut emission on your vehicle without putting an emission control device on it.
1. Before you go to your emission check up, take a nice long (1 to 2 hours) drive in it. Starting you car frequently to move it in and out of the garage or to go to local "Shows and Shines" actually builds up unburnt carbon in it's cylindars. By going for a nice long drive, you burn them out so that you score on the test will natually drop to admissable levels.
2. I recommend this either way, fill your crankcase with Synthetic Oil and I recommended Amsoil! Amsoil has a higher flashpoint and even if you do have some blowby, it won't turn to smoke. Plus Amsoil only need to be change every 25,000 miles (not a typo!) or once a year which ever happens first. Request a FREE Catalong at Amsoil. Amsoil not only has a higher flashpoint and needs changing infrequently, it keeps your engine cleaner and increases your gas mileage! It also starts better in sub zero weather and works better in higher temperature areas! While you are at it, add it to your daily rides, motorcycles, lawnmower, etc., etc. You won't regret it!

Nick Cash

THE PIONEER ELECTRIC CAR

by B. C. George
(This article first ran in the Jan/60 issue of Sports Cars Illustrated )
We recently drove a car that, when it reaches production, could take the second-car market by storm. The most unusual automobile of conventional configuration to be engineered in this country in many years, it will be manufactured by the Nic-L-Silver Battery Company of Santa Ana, California. There will be no gasoline or air pollution problems with the "Pioneer", as it is called, for this is the most promising to date of the several electric cars being engineered in various cities. Tests thus far indicate operating costs will be under V3 cent per mile.
The two-seater body is of laminated fiberglass by Aiken with a removable hardtop that attaches by four thumb screws, behind the individual bucket seats, which move far enough back to allow a six-footer reasonable comfort, are twelve 4-volt series-wired batteries of special design made by Nic-L-Silver. Concealed beneath rugged flooring which serves as luggage space, these lead-acid batteries have two cells each with 31 plates per cell and a capacity of eight hours at 235 ampere hours. A box section steel frame of simple but rugged construction carries the full torsion bar suspension which closely resembles the Volkswagen layout. Two electric motors, each delivering eight shaft horsepower are used; there is one to each rear wheel, the latter being driven by a rugged sprocket and chain system that is geared down to conserve power.
Top speed is 50 miles an hour but acceleration to this maximum is amazingly brisk, quicker than that of the average small imported car. .
Driving is simple and most enjoyable. The seats are as comfortable as those in most small sports cars. In fact one sits very low with the legs outstretched. There are two pedals, one being the 'usual brake pedal which operates a conventional hydraulic system with expanding shoe brakes with one slave cylinder in each wheel. The other pedal is a wide one for acceleration with an operation best described as two-stage. For normal driving at city traffic speeds, 25 to 35 miles an hour, the accelerator is depressed less than half way and the drain on the batteries is 24 volts at the most.
For full acceleration and speeds approaching the maximum, the pedal is depressed past the half way mark, whereupon the voltage used approaches or attains the maximum of 48 volts.
The steering system is also conventional re-circulating ball type with very easy movement of the wheel even at rest requiring three turns from lock to lock. As the wheelbase is just 95 inches, the Pioneer will turn on a dime; parking will be a breeze with space to spare due to the overall length of 157 inches. The overall width is about 60 inches which should qualify this little runabout for reduced parking rates in many public parking lots.
George Lippincott, the founder and president of Nic-L-Silver, hopes to have ten cars a day rolling off the assembly line now being tooled. Power companies, postal authorities, and dealers throughout the West Coast states are interested in obtaining the first models. As quickly as possible, according to Lippincott, the Pioneer will be produced at a rate of one hundred a day, national distribution being the eventual intention. The Pioneer has been tested in San Francisco where it devoured the city's famed steep hills in front of utility officials and interested dealers.
The weight of the Pioneer, with the hardtop in place, is 1800 pounds of which over 600 are accounted for by the batteries. The fiberglass body weighs less than 300 pounds.
During our demonstration drive around the outskirts of Santa Ana we experienced the curious glances of motorists in assorted large vehicles. While waiting for traffic lights to change, the complete lack of motor noise is, at first, some what ghostly. The two electric motors do not run when the foot is taken off the accelerator. The latter is, in effect, a switch; only when the pedal is pushed do the motors operate. Forward and reverse are controlled by a panel of solenoids and switches actuated by a small toggle switch on the dashboard. The latter contains a conventional speedometer and one other instrument showing the voltage being drawn.
The range of operation varies from 100 to 150 miles according to Lippincott, depending on whether one pushes the performance toward the maximum or is content to stay with the majority of traffic. Not intended to be a touring car with continental range, the Pioneer is aimed at families requiring the utility of a second car but also demanding economy. A battery charger will be standard equipment in each Pioneer. Recharging will take a maximum of eight hours and, despite rumors to the contrary, is from a regular 110 volt current outlet. Utility companies have indicated an interest in providing such outlets in selected public parking lots. In most areas a full charge is not likely to cost more than the fourth part of a dollar and where electricity is relatively low in cost, less than 20 cents. If in the process of going to and from work on parkways the driver stepped on it and obtained only 80 or 90 miles total range, he would still have extremely low cost transportation.
The ride is good, telescopic shock absorbers being used. The parking brake will appeal to those who like sports cars: a lever between the seats. The inside panels of the doors are of interesting design with the armrest built in.
In addition to the space above the batteries and behind the seats, other luggage can be stored beneath the front hood. The space behind the electric motors will be occupied by the battery charger. Maintenance will take little time. Checking the level of the batteries and taking a specific gravity reading occasionally (1.265 is normal) and greasing the chassis is all that is necessary. The latter has a total of three greasing points.
Next to the low cost of operation in importance is the price of the car which, in convertible form, will be $1995 F.O.B. Santa Ana according to Mr. Lippincott. The batteries will have a useful life of three years and, at that time, will cost less than $300 to replace. Other than the batteries, there is little to worry about outside of occasional motor brushes. The Pioneer will not be the only electric car but it will probably be the First...

1989 Mustang Saleen SSC Pioneer Demo Car

by BS Brash

The first time I saw this car, it was at a show and the owner was sitting in a chair across the aisle from it and was quietly waiting for anyone to put their head into the car, when they did, he would slowly lift his remote and turn on the speakers in this beast.

That might not sound like much until you read the description of this car, so with out further ado, here is the description;

1989 Mustang Saleen SSC Pioneer Demo Car. 1 of only 4 built. It was a collector car to begin with, but the addition of close to $30,000 (1989 money) in Pioneer State-Of-the-art Stereo Components, the stereo system was installed by Pioneer at their facility in LA and with 2-1000 watt amps, makes it not only a mind blower, but an Ear Busting, Window Cracking, Powerful Collector Car that will turn heads up to 12 blocks away! The photos of the Component box, more photos of the car, price and contact numbers are on this website, seeing the website will give you some idea of the just how powerful a system this car has , add that to the fact that the stereo components are so powerful that they have their own Heavy Duty Marine Battery to run them then you can began to understand the sound quality that this car's sound system achieves. They have even added heavier springs to handle the increased weight of the stereo components. Not to mention that this is a Saleen!

The owner saw it for sale and realized that this was an instant collector vehicle he bought it as an investment. It is for sale now and will make an instant show winner for anyone with the time and money to give it a little TLC. It has 70k original miles on it and was only used as a stereo component demo on wheels.

You may contact BS Brash at BSB@BSBrash.com

ELVIS OWNED ONE

By BS Brash

BMW Isetta, nicknamed the "rolling egg", the BMW 250, 300, 600 and Isetta cars were designed at a time when cheap, short distance transportation was needed. Driving one is like driving a heavy beachball. The only front door, is literally on the front. When the door opened the steering wheel swung back out of the way and it was possible that two small people could set in the seat side by side. The 600 has a rear seat and one extra door that opens on the right rear side to allow passengers into the rear seat

BMW Isetta 250, 1955. In a classic understatement, BMW ads for the USA called the car "a new concept in vehicle design." The cars have a one-cylinder BMW motorcycle engine with a 4-speed transmission. The top speed is 53 mph, and it gets 63 miles per gallon. The gas tank is less than two gallons, this from a time when gas was .25 cents a gallon and you could fill your tank for .50 cents. In 1958 you could buy one for $1,093. Adjusted for inflation, today the same car would cost about $7,500. I don’t think so, even if it is a Beemer! They are cute though. I drove mine to cheerleader practice and wound up with 4 dates that I wouldn’t have gotten otherwise! My interest in the Isetta lasted 4 dates and then I traded it off for a 57 DeSoto Adventurer with 2 4bbls, and a Hemi. Vaaa-Roooom!

As I said in the title, The King owned an Isetta, not only that , but he also gave one as a gift to Col Parker just before honoring his draft notice. A draft notice that he did honor! I wonder if the music idols of today would honor a draft notice? I kinda doubt it!

If you ever get a chance to drive an Isetta, take it. It is an experience you won’t soon forget!

Picture Caption:
Elvis shown exiting an Isetta, probably during his vacation in Munich while stationed in Germany.

Copyright BS Brash 2006

VAS ISS DAS VIENERMOBIL BISSNESS?

BS Brash

The recent birthday of Brooks Stevens, now deceased, who was one of the foremost industrial designers in the USA if not the world has brought to mind several automobiles which he has designed. Namely the Packard, Studebaker, Henry J, Excalibur and the Weinermobile. The Weinermobile? Yes the Weinermobile! Actually the Weinermobile was designed by or at least commissioned by Carl Mayer, son of the founder of Oscar Mayer Meats back in 1936. The first Weinermobile was made out of metal and was created by General Body Company of Chicago, IL. It was made to transport the world's smallest chef, Little Oscar. The original version featured open cockpits in the center and rear, later a glass enclosure was added to the drivers cockpit, in the center, for protection.

After the war, 1950-53, five Weinermobiles were commissioned to be built by the Gerstenlager company of Wooster, Ohio, these were set on a Dodge chassis, and were the first Weinermobiles to have buns! These toured the US for many years and served as a prototype for the next models.

In 1958 the currant style with a futuristic bubble-nose (and buns) was designed by Brook Stevens and built by the Gisholt Company of Madison, WI. Incorporating some of the first fiberglass applications in this country, this model was built on a Willys Jeep chassis. Unfortunately, it developed mechanical problems and was totally redesigned and rebuilt before retiring in the early 60's.

In 1960 two more Weinermobiles were built by the boys in the back room, the garage at the company's headquarters in Madison, WI. Using a variety of automotive parts from numerous suppliers, these served the company well for many years. One unit is still being used in Puerto Rico, the other is still used occasionally for trade shows and special events in the USA.

In the early 70's the Weinermobile program was discontinued. The last one was moved to Disney World to serve as the host at the Oscar Mayer sponsored restaurant there. The company then shifted it promotional focus to TV and consumer couponing.

In 1976 a styrofoam Weinermobile was again commissioned to be built by Plastics Products of Milwaukee, WI and was built using the same mold as previously. This one was mounted on Chevy motor home chassis. It served the company till 1988 when it was shipped to Spain along with two of the 1988 models.

In 1988 six more Weinermobiles were built by Steven's Automotive Corporation, Milwaukee, WI (designers of the Excalibur) and installed on Chevy van chassis with V/6 engines and five of those now tour the country all the way from the Mardi Gras to county fairs and are driven by "Hotdogger", college students chosen for their outgoing personality and profiled like movie stars. These "Hotdoggers" learn their trade at (where else) "Hot Dog High".

The company have since built four more Weinermobiles and shipped them to Spain and Japan.

The currant Weinermobiles are celebrities where ever they go. Each one is 22 hot dogs high, 52 hot dogs long, 18 hot dogs wide, and weigh 580,000 hot dogs. They run on a special high octane mustard (They really haul buns), with a top speed somewhere between a speeding bullet and ketchup pouring from a bottle.

They feature gull wing door, microwave oven, refrigerator, sun roof, steamer, loudspeaker system, Am/Fm radio cassette, CB radio, and air conditioning (It's a hot dog with all the fixins).

For those of you, like myself, who have seen them on the roads, here are their names; Yummy, Big Bun, Our Dog, Weener and of course Oscar. Oscar is the one that I see frequently as it tools up and down I-44 (the new designation for Old Route 66 for those of you who don't know) The above picture of Oscar was taken at The World's Largest McDonald's on the I-44 Turnpike at Vinita Oklahoma.

The Weinermobiles are definitely American celebrities of the road. If you ever get a chance to have your picture taken with one of them, send me a whistle (they give neat hot dog whistles away) and a picture for the wall.

BS Brash’s Email Address is BSB@BSBrash.com
Copyright BS Brash 2003-6

CAN AVERAGE JOE AFFORD TO SELL HIS CLASSIC AT THE B-J?

By BS Brash

Below, don’t look yet, but you will find the entry & sales fees from what is arguably the biggest and best classic car auction in the world, The Barrett-Jackson! Although B-J has more than one auction a year, but I am only talking about the Annual Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction held in Scottsdale, Arizona every January, this auction is the 36th Anniversary and will be held January 13th – 21st, 2007.

Okay, so you have a classic car that you want to sell and you are thinking about consigning it to the B-J. Now what are the costs? First there is the vehicle’s transportation fee to the B-J, assuming that you don’t live in Arizona which can be anywhere up to $1000's depending on the quality, speed, distance and insurance, etc. Then, since you will also want to go to the B-J, you will have your personal transportation, hotel room, and food costs not to mention incidental costs, these will not be cheap.

Then there’s the Sales Fee, let’s say you own a pristine 1959 Knucklebuster Convertible, which you value at $90,000. In order to sell it at the best time, which is Saturday Jan 20, 2006 between 10:00a & 5:00p, the cost of your entry is $1200, maybe more. B-J is either not posting the prices anymore or are hiding the costs on their website. A Reserve doesn’t seem to be available to the public any more, so we will say that a friend of mine who should know says the listing fee is $1200 at no reserve (these are 2006 costs, expect them to go up annually!).

AND if your Classic sells in the $70k to $90k range, your sales fee will be, at 8%, or $5.6k to $7.2k! Woooee!

One other little fee that will be of no concern to you, but may still effect the sale is the Buyer’s Fee of 8% or $5.6k to $7.2k, just a little side note, the Buyer also has to pay a $500 (up $200 from 2004) Registration Fee just to bid! (Just to be a spectator is $1600 for the week if you buy our ticket at the door and you can’t bid!!)

Plus the buyer will also have transportation fees to and from the auction, hotel bill, food and other misc. expenses too, noe of which is cheap (I would like to mention here that nothing about this transaction will be cheap for anybody, buyer, seller or visitor!), not to mention the cost of transporting the car home to his garage. I don’t know about you, but I am afraid these fees would defininatly color my bid on any classic car! So how much would the total costs be if your Classic sells? Conservatively $8k to$16k depending on how high maintenance you and your sweetie are. How much would the B-J possibly make on your Classic? Conservatively $12,000 - $14,000 and they don’t even own it! Man am I in the wrong business!!As of today (12/6/6), the B-J has 1240+ cars listed (and my sources now say that B-J considers the 2007 auction full and is inviting anyone else to the Palm Beach event on March 28th – April 1st, 2007. The B-J runs pretty high in sales percentages and not all cars are just $50,000 cars, so I will leave it to someone who has the time to figure how big the B-J 2006 take will be. But I think I can say that it will definitely be an interesting figure!

Here are the results from the 2006 B-J.

BS Brash’s Email Address is BSB@BSBrash.com Copyright 2006 BS Brash

What's Your "Southern" Sign?

What's Your "Southern" Sign? Some of us (especially Southerners) are pretty skeptical of horoscopes, and it has become obvious that what we need are "Southern" symbols: and to that end, I give you:

The Southern Horoscope

OKRA (Dec 22 - Jan 20) Although you appear crude, you are actually very slick on the inside. Okras have tremendous influence. An older Okra can look back over his life and see the seeds of his influence everywhere. Stay away from Moon Pies.

CHITLIN (Jan 21 - Feb 19) Chitlins come from humble backgrounds. A chitlin, however, can make something of himself if he's motivated and has lots of seasoning. In dealing with Chitlins, be careful. They can erupt like Vesuvius. Chitlins are best with Catfish and Okra.

BOLL WEEVIL (Feb 20 - Mar 20) You have an overwhelming curiosity. You're unsatisfied with the surface of things, and you feel the need to bore deep into the interior of everything. Needless to say, you are very intense and driven as if you had some inner hunger. Nobody in their right mind is going to marry you, so don't worry about it.

MOON PIE (Mar 21 - Apr 20) You're the type that spends a lot of time on the front porch. It's a cinch to recognize the physical appearance of Moon Pies. Big and round are the key words here. This might be the year to think about aerobics. Or - maybe not.

POSSUM (Apr 21 - May 21) When confronted with life's difficulties, possums have a marked tendency to withdraw and develop a don't-bother-me-about-it attitude. Sometimes you become so withdrawn, people actually think you're dead. This strategy is probably not really healthy, but seems to work for you. One day, however, it won't work and you may find your problems actually running you over.

CRAWFISH (May 22 - June 21) Crawfish is a water sign. If you work in an office, you're always hanging around the water cooler. Crawfish prefer the beach to the mountains, the pool to the golf course, the bathtub to the living room. You tend to be not particularly attractive physically, but you have a very, very good head.

COLLARDS (June 22 - July 23) Collards have a genius for communication. They love to get in the "melting pot" of life and share their essence with the essence of those around them.. Collards make good social workers, psychologists, and baseball managers. As far as your personal life goes, if you are Collards, stay away from Moon Pies. It just won't work. Save yourself a lot of heartache.

CATFISH (July 24 - Aug 23) Catfish are traditionalists in matters of the heart, although one's whiskers may cause problems for loved ones. You catfish are never easy people to understand. You prefer the muddy bottoms to the clear surface of life. Above all else, Catfish should stay away from Moon Pies.

GRITS (Aug 24 - Sept 23) Your highest aim is to be with others like yourself. You like to huddle together with a big crowd of other Grits. You love to travel though, so maybe you should think about joining a club. Where do you like to go? Anywhere they have cheese or gravy or bacon or butter or eggs. If you can go somewhere where they have all these things, that serves you well.

BOILED PEANUTS (Sept 24 - Oct 23) You have a passionate desire to help your fellow man. Unfortunately, those who know you best - your friends and loved ones - may find that your personality is much too salty, and their criticism will probably affect you deeply because you are really much softer than you appear. You should go right ahead and marry anybody you want to because in a certain way, yours is a charmed life. On the road of life, you can be sure that people will always pull over and stop for you.

BUTTER BEAN (Oct 24 - Nov 22) Always invite a Butter Bean because Butter Beans get along well with everybody. You, as a Butter Bean, should be proud. You've grown on the vine of life and you feel at home no matter what the setting. You can sit next to anybody. However, you, too, shouldn't have anything to do with Moon Pies.

ARMADILLO (Nov 23 - Dec 21) You have a tendency to develop a tough exterior, but you are actually quite gentle. A good evening for you? Old friends, a fire, some roots, fruit, worms and insects. You are a throwback. You're not concerned with today's fashions and trends. You're not concerned with anything about today. You're really almost prehistoric in your interests and behavior patterns. You probably want to marry another Armadillo, but Possum is another possibility.

I don't know who the author of this is, but I love it and post it here for your enjoyment. KLN

Barrett-Jackson’s Value Guide

By BS Brash
For the most part, Barrett-Jackson Auction is over priced or maybe a better way to put it is wrong priced, at least for the average Joe it is and as a result I don’t recommend that you use this service for anything else other than to see how your car compares to those sold by B-J in the last few auctions. As a matter of fact, I am not sure how many auctions B-J is using for this database. It may just be the current 2006 Scottsdale Arizona auction.

The main problem with any price guide is that it was correlated from the most recent auction rates. This can mean many things, but most of all it means that most prices you get from a price guide are just that, a guideline to sell your vehicle. The prices paid for collector vehicles can be either, very bad or too good, but mostly, just not an average representation of current market prices. The best advice that I can give you is to cut the price that the price guide gives you by 25%-50% when buying and sell as near the price guide’s price as you can, but don’t get married to it, be flexible!! The reverse may also be true, if yours is a scarce collector car, and hasn’t been to an auction recently, the value you see may be severely under what the actual value of your classic may be.

At any rate, here is the Barrett-Jackson Value Guide link for your perusal.

http://www.barrett-jackson.com/auctionresults/default.asp

Copyright 2006 BSBrash

ARE 4 WHEELS ENOUGH?

BS Brash

There have been all kinds of vehicles built in the recorded history of man, all the way from one wheel bicycles and even a one wheel motorcycle to multi wheeled cars and trucks.

A gentleman named Milton Reeves raised this question in the early 1900's, using the Pullman train coach as his example, he stated that "the Pullman coach rides so smooth on eight wheels, maybe automobiles should be built likewise".

There were several automobiles built with more than 4 wheels, but none so awesome as the 1911 Reeves Octo-Auto, a monstrous 8 wheeled behemoth.

Reeves in using the Pullman coach as his model for the Octo-Auto, neglected to take into consideration one small fact, that the Pullman ran on a smooth continuous rail and never ventured onto the American back road nightmare that was to most drivers a necessity to navigate. While the Octo-Auto was indeed a very smooth ride on smooth surfaces, it was completely uncontrollable on the normal rutted and pitted roads that existed everywhere except in the most affluent of cities.

Another thing Reeves glossed over was that the added weight coupled with a very small four cylinder engine made quick starts out of the question as the Octo-Auto had to build up speed very slowly similar to a train. Add to that the fact that all those added parts were break-down prone and as a result the Octo-Auto never seriously became a player in the new automobile industry.

Reeves, not to be dissuaded from his idea brought out a six-wheeled vehicle named Sexto-Auto in 1912, which failed for the same reasons as the Octo-Auto.

There have been numerous attempts to sell the American auto buyer on three wheel vehicles, but to no avail, so I guess that means that four wheels are just right!

BS Brash’s Email Address is BSB@BSBrash.com
Copyright BS Brash 2006

The 1957 Chevy Nomad

By BS Brash
As most of you know, I don't think that the 57 Chevy is the ultimate consumation of man and machine. That being said, the 57 Chevy BelAir Nomad is one sexy looking vehicle! The picture on the right is one example of the 57 Nomad, I particularlly like it's Tourch Red Color. (It is for sale at http://www.FastToysForBoys.us )
If you just "Have" to own a 57 Chevy, let it be a Nomad! To that end, check out the Chevy Nomad Club at ttp://www.chevynomadclub.com

Below is a historical Synopsis of the Chevy Nomad:

History of the Nomad
1954 - 1 Nomad was made, it was a proto-type and is the only one
of the Nomads to have a name. It debuted at The Waldorf Astoria in
New York for General Motors Motorama and was subsequently
named The Waldorf. It looked a lot like the 54 Corvette as it was
made on the 54 Vette chassis. It was such a huge success that
some of the unique features were applied to a Chevrolet Belair
two-door station wagon and it was put into production as a Nomad
in 1955.

Creation of the Nomad; All of the bodies were made at the Cleveland
plant and shipped to the Flint, Baltimore, St. Louis, Los Angeles,
Jamestown, Tarrytown, Atlanta, Kansas City, Oakland, Willow Run,
and Norwood plants to be assembled. Some of the unique features
of the Nomad are the chrome tailgate bars, the ribbed roof and of
course, the slanted "B" pillars.

1955 - 8,530 Nomads produced. Special features unique to the 1955
Nomad are the headlight eye brows, fender and door spears, large
rear wheel wells, waffle pattern interior design, and other interior
trim pieces.

1956 - 8,103 Nomads produced. Chevrolet standardized most
features in 1956. Two special features for the Nomad were the
dogleg on the quarter panel and the chrome "V" under the tail lights
for eight cylinder cars.

1957 - 6,534 Nomads produced. The 1957 models received no
special trim. All interior and exterior trim are interchangeable with
other Belair models. Even though there were fewer 1957 Nomads
produced, and it had no special trim, it is arguably the most popular
with collectors today.

Copyright 2006 BS Brash

STOOPID NEW CARS!

STOOPID NEW CARS!
Karl Nichols

Things were going along pretty good today till I stopped at the vets to fill my dogs prescription. When I came out the dang car wouldn't start, it did nothing, not even flutter the starter, you know that sound from the old days that told you that your battery was close to dead. So I popped the hood and crawled out to peer fruitlessly under the hood. These new cars with their transistors everywhere are totally unfathomable to me and everybody else but a trained mechanic! Whatever the trouble was, it wasn't apparent to me! So I grouped in my pocket for my cellphone, took out my billfold and looked up the roadside service to which I currently subscribed and called them, after the ID phase concluded and they decided that I actually was a client, they said they would send help as soon as possible. Soon I received a call from Bubba's Lock Service (?), and he gave me his phone number and said he would appear sooner or later to help me, he was right, it was two hours later that he arrived, but I will say this, he called me aver 15-30 minutes and asked me if I still needed help? I guess this is because of the friendly nature of Oklahoma? Oklahoma is a place where everybody holds doors open for everybody else. I have to say that I did get several offers, strangely they were all from women, one of them even offered to entertain me till my help arrived. I got her phone number and told her I would call her later. But not one man offered any help?

When Bubba did show up, I wasn't in the mood for polite conversation and without much ado he pronounced my battery dead, pulled out a little thing about the size of a small briefcase, plugged it into my battery and after a couple of coughs, the engine started right up. I had him follow me to the parts house (just in case) about a block away and where I got a new battery for the car.

What's my point? This kinda crap didn't happen to cars pre-transistor era! I suspect that there is a transistor hooked up to the battery that tells a computer that this battery is sick and not to use it any more. The battery is probably good for another two or three starts, but because of the stupid transistor, it doesn't work from that point on!

Copyright 2006 KL Nichols

Jingle Bells, The Politically Correct Song?

By Karl Nichols

Just in case you were in Siberia and missed the fight over how to express Christmas musically and verbally this year. I would like to point out that the song Jingle Bells is the safest Holiday song. Personally, I could care less that Wall-Mart or Target don't feel comfortable saying Merry Christmas either to their customers or on their websites and yes I know that the public has forced them to say Merry Christmas, at least in Wal-Mat's case, so don't email me!

Personally my favorite is the Jingel Bells rendition that OverStock.com is using for the second year in a row, it is flat out sexy!

But be that as it may, we are a county in turmoil over hurting anyone's feelings, so let me be the first to wish you Happy New Year, thereby circumnavigating the "What to Say For The Hoiliday" thingie. That is untill we find out that the Chinese New Year doesn't coincide either by date or by year with our version.

Holiday Regards,

Karl Nichols

Art Cars or Garbage Cars?

Art Cars or Garbage Cars?
By BS Brash

I have a friend who owns a 62 Chevy Station Wagon, that in it’s self is not unusual because almost all of my friends own old cars. But Dub had gone one step further by gluing plastic toys all over his and he calls it art.

I have a personal definition of art; Art is something that takes more talent than I have to do. By that I mean if I can copy what you are doing exactly then it isn’t art, it’s craft. I can make birdhouses like the guy down at the flea market makes, because it is a craft. I cannot paint a painting like Van Gough so the painting is art. I can fill a glass with urine and put a crucifix in it, so that isn’t art, just a jerk exercising his First Amendment rights. So when Dub brought his “craft” car over last weekend and tried to start his usual argument that his car is actually art, I was prepared! I knew he was coming and had done an Internet search on Art Cars and had found plenty of ammo!

I found a bunch of sites all related to Art Cars, and as I figured, there were a lot of “Craft” cars, but as with most situations, there were some that were absolute art!

I am giving you the website and I want you to make up your own mind.

http://www.artcarfest.com/vehicles/

Copyright 2006 BS Brash

A NEW AUTOMOTIVE OPTION?

A NEW AUTOMOTIVE OPTION?
BY BS BRASH

I think I have discovered a new automotive option!? You be the judge.
I took just an extended trip with Bubba, a true Okie from Muskogee. We stopped in Texas on the way back from dropping off a beautiful 65 Mustang in Arizona that Bubba had been restoring for the owner. Bubba’s slow, but his restoration work is absolutely prefect. Anyway back to the story, and the Barbeque Joynt we stopped at in Texas. As I said, Bubba is a true Okie and as such is a barbeque lover, that eats onions like an apples and barbequed beans & beer by the quart. The latter is what brought about my discovery of the new automotive option. Almost back to Oklahoma and Bubba’s beans, beer and onions started working on him. I persuaded Bubba to stop and unload what ever it was that was polluting the air in the truck, but after we got back on the road, it was still rank in the cab. As a matter of fact it was still rank when we got back to Tulsa, very late that night, and it was still bad the next day and when Bubba took it down to the car wash to clean off the road oil. I suggested that he hose it out inside, just in case there was something on the seat. “That is my new Fart Saver Seat in action”, said Bubba. I asked what he meant and he told me that ever since he had bought the pickup new, it had exhibited the propensity to hold any odor that was injected directly into the seat. I told him he was imagining things but he said that the seat was so good at retaining odors that he had just naturally figured that it was not a accident, just an option that the car company had forgot to put on the accessories list. He even got out the build sheet and showed me and sure enough it wasn’t on there. But Bubba is right, it just has to be on purpose, so it must be one of those built in unlisted values that you hear about because even now, almost 15 days later the scent is still lingers there.

You don’t think that it could actually be those Texas Barbeque beans, onions & beer do you?

I hope the Environmental Pollution Agency never gets wind of these seats!
Say, did I just make a pun?

Copyright BS Brash 2006 - BS Brash’s Email Address is BSB@BSBrash.com

THE BANTHRICO AFFAIR

Some believe collecting is a curse and for those of us who fall prey to it's virus, it is generally a life long affliction!

My particular interest in cars began when my eyes first lit on the little car bank that my parent’s bank was selling for $2.95. $2.95 was a lot of money back in the forties and it may be that if my parents had bought me that little bank, that would have been the last of it! But they didn't and my little mind fixed on that bank and decided that someday I was going to have a million of those all my own!

Well, I didn't get quite to a million, but I still have a few years left to accomplish that goal.

The little bank I was later to discover, was a Banthrico Bank, and is probably one of the most unsung collector car models in the USA.

There were probably several million made, but I seldom see more than two or three at the swap meets or car shows. Although a recent search on eBay turned up over 100 for sale. But since there are over 140 million registered eBayers, it still seems like a small amount of Banthricos for sale!

All of the Banthrico banks that are made of metal (they make some of plastic and wood too) are hand made with the antique slush molding process one at a time, even today.

The company was first started in 1914 and was known then as the Strongheart Company and later as Banker's Thrift Company, which fell into bankruptcy during the Great Depression. It's assets were purchased by Joseph Eisendrath who changed the name to Banthrico Industries. In 1940 Banthrico purchased National Products, but the National name stayed on their products until 1951.

In 1949 Banthrico began to furnish promotional models for the auto dealers most of which were Chevrolets of which over 104,000 were made that first year.

Some of the first promos were painted, but for the most part, they are bronzetone plated, with the exception of the newer models, which are pewtertone plated. They currently make around 50 different models.

If you are a beginner collector, you could do far worse than to start your collection with Banthrico Banks.

Just for the record, there are a lot of other Banthrico Banks that aren’t automotive, there are busts of presidents and models of buildings & etc., so Banthrico, while being a good place to start, just may become a life long passion for you too!

If you want a new one for a gift, check out http://banthrico.com.


BS Brash’s email address is mailto:BSB@BSBrash.com
Copyright BS Brash 2006

Windmills, The Palm Trees of Route 66

By Karl Nichols

Windmills remind me of palm trees. I think it has to do with the fact that when the wind blows through the palm trees or windmills, it has a relaxing effect on me. Driving down Route 66 recently, I saw a windmill across the fields sitting motionless even though the wind was blowing about 20 miles an hour. It was as if the wind was blowing everywhere except at the windmill. It was probably rusted tight though inactivity. The windmills stand unused for the most part; looking for all the world like the jutting rib bones or dead dinosaurs haphazardly strewn here and there in a random pattern all along Old Route 66. The use of the windmill has slowed down due to many changes in our environment, electricity, changes in crop and animal usage on the farms. However the windmill is slowly gaining acceptance in the environmental field as a great tool as an alternative fuel. Not only can you pump water with a windmill, but also you can create electricity for home and business use. I am seeing huge fields of gigantic windmills cropping up in many states for electrical use only.

I was surfing the Internet recently and decided to do a search for windmills, the results were gratifying! There were many windmill websites including a couple of windmill magazines. Among the information on the websites I ran across was an ongoing effort to interest the post office in to making a commemorative stamp for windmills. One of the more interesting websites was dedicated to a windmill museum in Shattuck. Oklahoma. It has an interesting collection of rare & restored windmills from the 1850s to the 1950s symbolizing the method by which farmers were able to settle farm land that was without adequate ground water. The collection includes over 30 wonderful examples of pioneer ingenuity & spirit. Open daily for group tours available by appointment. This facility is handicapped accessible. P.O. Box 755, Shattuck, Oklahoma 73858 - 580-938-2818. Visit their website at http://www.woodwardok.com/parks/windmill.htm

What The Heck Will My Kids Collect?

by B.S.Brash

As is my custom, occasionally, I was sitting at a table in my favorite watering hole, Mother’s, quaffing a couple of suds and talking with what few friends I have left. When all of a sudden the conversation turned ugly, Joe, I will call him Joe to protect our friendship, Joe said, “The new cars suck as collectables, I mean in 20-25 years these plastic Easter Eggs will be unfixable and as a result won’t be very good collectables at all”! Joe went on, “With all the dang transistors in everything from the radio to the carbs, how the heck are my kids going to fix them”?

As I set there trying to look thoughtful, he said to me, “BS, you’re supposed to be the expert, what is your opinion”?

I decided that now was a good time to go see a man about a dog, if you get my drift, it also gave me time to come up with an opinion. After my trip to the little boy’s room I returned to a literal fight, two big guys were kicking the tar out of each other, so we decided to adjourn to my garage and continue with the beer and conversation there. This was good because it gave me more time to think on Joe’s question.

What will the collectables be? The Special Edition cars for sure, the cutesy cars like the PT Cruiser, and what else. The new cars are made of so much plastic that it won’t be hard to reproduce the parts for restoration, but what about the electronic dashes and gauges and the engine that needs a computer to tell you what is wrong with it? And the brains of the car, the computer, my gosh man, how the heck are they going to repair that?

I finally came to the conclusion that the collector cars of today will just get more valuable and as for the collector cars of the future, eventually your repairman will be a computer geek, not a mechanic! It would seem that to be a classic collector in the future, you would either have to own a repair computer or belong to a club that owns one!

I never did answer Joe’s question, he into ran old girl friend on the way out of Mother’s and he never made it to my place. But I did see his point!

*Note: You can read other BS Brash articles on www.bsbrash.com - His email address is: BSB@BSBrash.com

Copyright 2006 BS Brash

The Meyers Manx - By BS Brash

In the light of the renewed interest in the Meyers Manx and the results that are showing up in the Classic Auctions across the US, I offer this information.
Bruce Meyers first became acquainted with "Dune Buggies" on Pismo Beach. These were V8 powered "water pumpers". These machines were crude and heavy so Bruce took it upon himself to design a lightweight version that would be fun on the beach or in the wilds of Baja. Bruce used his expertise in boat building to design the first fiberglass bodied dune buggy, the Meyers Manx.
(Photograph of Meyer's Manxster II)
Bruce Meyer’s Manx started the off-road revolution by building 5,280 Manx kits and several hundred Manx II's - a total of nearly 6,000 Manx kits. With all of the knock-offs, there were over 250,000 dune buggy’s built during that era.
The Meyers Manx was amazing ! It handled better than any other off-road vehicle and was much more fun to drive. The Manx won numerous slalom events and the Pike's Peak Hill Climb (beating Corvettes, Cobras, and most open wheel sprint cars). It set the record for traveling the length of Baja at 34 hours and 45 minutes (driven by Bruce and Ted Mangels who beat the motorcycle record by more than five hours).
The Meyers Manx took the country by storm when magazines like Hot Rod featured the fiberglass car on their covers (it was the first picture of car jumping into the air just for the fun of it!).
The Meyers company went on to produce the Tow'd for off-road use only. Bruce raced the Tow'd in the second Baja 1000 and ended by crashing and breaking both legs.
The next product of the company was the Meyers Manx S.R. (Street Roadster). This car was designed for the street only and possessed a sleek aerodynamic shape. It was built to fit on the same shortened VW floorpan as the original Manx to keep the great handing characteristics. The car had thirteen fiberglass and many metal pieces. There were 400 to 600 of these kits sold.
The Resorter/Tourista was also produced by the company to provide a 4 seat version of the Manx. The Resorter had lower sides for easier entrance and exit. The car was originally produced for hotel chains to carry tourists.
A few Utility cars were produced that included vehicles for the Lifeguards of Los Angeles County and the rangers of the Forest Service. The cars were equipped with flat rear bed for hauling gear which required the use of a VW "pancake" engine.
The last vehicle in the Manx fleet is the Kublewagon. This car is designed to be a replica of the German Desert Staff car of WWII and is built on a full length floorpan. This car was featured in an issue for Hot VW's recently. Sadly, there was only one of these cars built. The total number of kits of all types and completed cars was about 7,000.
Unfortunately, the Meyers Manx company went out of business in 1971 due to the strains of fighting the cheap imitations of the copiers , the loss of the patent infringement case, and the tax demands of the I.R.S.
Now, 32 years later, due to a renewed interest in the Meyers Manx and at the urging by many of Bruce's friends he has re-formed the company. The first in a new line of products is the four-seat Manxter. After over three years of R&D at the hands of Mr. Meyers himself, it is a true masterpiece. A Manx for the Millennium!
Reference & source site http://www.meyersmanx.com/
Meyer's Manx Forum http://www.meyersmanx.com/forums/index.php

Meyer's Manx Club http://www.manxclub.com/

Copyright 2006 BS Brash Contact BS Brash

WHAT IS THE AUTO LOTTERY?tm

By Karl Nichols

TheAutoLottery.com is a website that tracks and reports on Automotive Chance Events, in other words, Auto Raffles & Drawings. If you like to take a chance now and then, Automotive Chance Events have odds that are extremely better than your local lottery.

Each year there are large quantities of desirable vehicles put up for raffle, including classic cars, new cars, trucks & motorcycles and some even offer a cash option alternative, these are raffled off in what we choose to call The Auto Lotterytm or Automotive Chance Events (A.C.E.). Raffle/Drawing Tickets, for as little as $1-$100 allow you to participate at any financial level you choose in the lucrative Lottery, which has odds that are Extremely better than your local lottery, and with our help and organization, there is a good possibility that you could a major winner in The Auto Lotterytm!

One more thing, almost all the Raffles are held by Charitable organizations which benefit from your donations! So not only are you having lotsa fun, and possibly making money, but you are helping to support charities! I ask you, "Does it get much better than that?"

Copyright 2006 TheAutoLotterytm

RUMORS, LIES & DAMNED LIES

by BS Brash

We’ve all heard the rumors, stories, internet myths and some down right lies, most of which are interesting if they pertain to vehicles. I realize that repeating a rumor is not considered acceptable in polite company but who am I to pass up something worth a few words for The CarNewz Blog.

I guess that you've heard the one about the guy who bought the old Harley Davidson motorcycle for $35 at a swap meet?! His thinking was that it was probably going to be hard to buy parts for, upon calling his local H.D. dealer and giving him the serial number was shortly asked to see if the cycle had "The King" embossed under the seat. It did and thus confirmed (supposedly) that it had indeed been The King’s Harley! Yep, according to the story, it belonged to none other than Elvis Presley. According to the story, he was offered $350,000 for it by a collector. News apparently travels fast in the motorcycle collector underground and shortly the bewildered owner was contacted by Jay Lano who offered him a flat $500,000 for it. This story/rumor doesn't end there though, it is reported that the Harley Davidson Company entered the bidding with a Cool Million Dollars and to sweeten the pot also offered the now stupefied owner an additional Free Harley every year for the rest of his life! I hear tell that he, the owner, still hasn't accepted any offers. I wonder what he's holding out for, President of the USA?

Another recent story/rumor I have heard about involved a 2004 Porsche 944 that was advertised for $500 in a paper up north. Our hero called and was told that it had a clear, paid-off title; it had never been wrecked and had only 1200 actual miles on it. Our hero drove over to look at it and was satisfied that it was indeed everything and more that it was advertised as being. He asked if the woman selling it would take a check, she would, and he rode off in the Porsche.

He had almost made it home when he couldn't take it anymore and stopped to call the lady who sold the Porsche to him with the question of "Why"? She said "My husband is down in the Bahamas and called to tell me to sell the Porsche and wire the money to him". She went on, "what he doesn't know is that I know he is down there with his secretary"!

Another story I heard of several years ago was about a guy who read in the classified section of his local paper about a brand new Cadillac for sale for only $50. This man called and it hadn't been sold yet so went to see it. It was indeed brand new, only 800 miles showing and the lady selling it said the title was clear and the car had never been wrecked. When asked why she was selling it so cheap, the lady said it had belonged to her deceased husband who had specified in his will to sell the car and give the money to his mistress. Our man paid cash and left in his purchase.

Notice the last two stories were about treasured vehicles which were sold by vengeful wives? If there is a moral to these stories I guess it would have to be, if you leave home for anywhere, either take your wife or your classic!
Copyright 2006 BS Brash

2006 SEMA Show - By Mark C Bach

Well folks it was another successful year at SEMA’s – the Specialty Equipment Market Association – show held recently in Las Vegas, Nevada. This is the show you’ll hear about in magazines in three of four months, where manufacturers bring out their new products and services and show off their equipment in spectacular cars. Over 6,800 companies have joined SEMA and at times it seems like every vendor was there at the Las Vegas Convention Center.

This event has grown from the first year they held a small show in Dodge Stadium in 1967. This year over a million square feet was utilized for displays (every available square inch of space at the three interconnected buildings), plus they used large tents and outdoor displays to show their items off. To see every display you’ll need some endurance and walking shoes, as you cover over 18 miles to see all the aisles of carburetors, tires, rims and accessories. If you can’t find it at SEMA, they don’t make it!

A highlight of the show is walking through their showcase of new products. Over 1500 items are submitted for review. Sometimes these are just minor alterations to fit a different engine or car and other times they are whole new, patented items. SEMA each year awards many of these items awards for their usefulness and inventiveness. Both Craftsman and Gear Wrench were showing off combination wrenches that are twisted 90 degrees on the handle, thus allowing users to have the handle fit into the palm of their hand better. Gear Wrench even had devices set up to see how much more torque and force you gained with this design.

For some it is the chance to have a conversation face to face with the managers and tech advisors for the company. Others are scouting the aisles looking for new products or companies that can augment their existing line of products. And for many it is a chance to eye ball some beauties – both the gorgeous models and the sensational cars. Over 2,000 cars are on display here at the show, from new offerings from the manufacturers and maybe even a concept car or two, to some historical vehicles and some current models customized with a bazillion monitors and mega watt sound systems. SEMA estimates that if all the cars were lined up bumper to bumper the line would stretch 5 ½ miles ! Son, that’s a lot of cars!!

As far as new cars, the most talked about had to be GM’s first suggestion of what the Camaro will look like, while Dodge showed the Challenger. For my money, Dodge nailed it right on and truly has emulated the old style. Good luck General, your work is cut out for you. GM also featured a 69 Camaro owned by Reggie Jackson with a new GM LSX engine. Jay Leno was not to be outdone with an “EcoJet” turbine powered car that produces 650 horses when powered up to 70% turbine speed. Chip Foose took time from his Overhaulin’ duties to bring out a lime green creation he named “Hemisfear”. If you were into celebrities from racing, they were all there from pioneers to rising starts. John Force hosted a NHRA breakfast that brought out legions of fans and lots of belly laughs.

Now for some bad news – this show is not open to the public. This is a trade show meaning that only those folks in the business can come and play! SEMA made a point this year of warning folks that they were cracking down on their credentials and making sure that voyeurs weren’t part of the 100,000 folks parading through the halls this year. But perhaps you can find a friendly shop will to sponsor you for the 2007 that will be held in Las Vegas from October 30 – November 2, 2007. For more info check out http://www.semashow.com . If you pre-register the show costs only $15 while walk up attendees wait in long lines and pay $50.

YOUR NEW CAR MAY BE A SNITCH!
BS Brash

Late last Saturday night I was sitting with the guys in Mother's, my favorite watering hole, just kinda listening to the dull roar going on around me. When all of a sudden my ears pricked up... A guy at the table behind me was complaining to some guy at his table that his car had gotten him arrested. I slowly turned and asked him to explain. The story he told me doesn't apply to all cars yet, but it is increasing in numbers and likelihood!
This is his story; He was going home after a party when he sideswiped a parked car, fearing he wouldn't pass a Breathalyzer test, he continued on home after noting the licenses plate of the car so he could offer restitution the following day (yeah, right). As he was leaving to continue home, his car phone rang, noting that the Caller ID said Car Star Service (name changed to protect the guilty), he chose not to answer it. This was not a good decision as the Car Star Service had noted that the car had suffered an impact from it’s computer sensors and when he didn't answer the phone, they assumed that the car had been stolen and reported the assumed theft to the local police along with the GPS coordinates (another good/bad feature). This resulted in his arrest for stealing his own car, when the cops smelled his breath and saw the damage to the car. This led to a DUI & Leaving The Scene of an Accident, which though deserved, was very costly and caused him to disconnect that Car Star System.
So if you have an auto security system that unlocks your door, take note, you better answer the car phone when they call!
The Car Star System is a small erosion of our freedom, just like forced seatbelt usage. Now before you write me a dirty emails, I do think that kids should have to wear seatbelts till they can vote, but consenting adults is another thing altogether! Little by little we are loosing our rights and freedoms and seatbelts is just a small example of that! I should be able to make the decision as to whether I want to wear seatbelts or not. Seatbelts have been forced on us by the car manufacturers and the eco-nazis, think about it! In order to make a car that gets better gas mileage. They make cars to day like eggshells, one bump costs you a minimum of $500 to get it fixed! When you start making cars out of lighter material to get better gas mileage you get cars that will not protect the passengers unless they are strapped in like an Indy driver! BSB@BSBrash.com
Copyright 2006 BS Brash Contact BS Brash

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